Nikolai Gogol, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Anton Chekhov and many other Russian prominent authors can be found at the 42nd Cairo International Book Fair, which opened doors for the public on Friday with Russia as this year's Guest of Honour. The Russian side is celebrating this opportunity with around 2,000 books, hovering between classics and modern works from over 50 Russian publishing houses. The Russian activities are taking place in two pavilions; the first is the usual Russian pavilion, which previews Russia's latest publications, while the second is in the 'Guest of Honour' pavilion where the majority of its activities are happening. "There is a rich programme of round tables with Russian authors and writers, seminars and meetings," says Helmi el-Namnam, the Deputy Chairman of the General Egyptian Book Organisation. "There's a very long history of co-operation between Egypt and Russia and the latter's being the Guest of Honour this year reflects that." The activities revolve around themes like ‘Russia today', ‘Science fiction in Russian literature' and the main theme, ‘Egyptian-Russian cultural co-operation over the years'. The Russian pavilion will also witness a special exhibition on the High Dam, the biggest Russian project in Egypt's modern history. There is also a special section for Anton Chekhov's works translated into Arabic, as well as Russian folkloric dancing and workshops for children to learn Russian.
